NEW YORK — A New York couple is suing the state for $10 million after their pet squirrel, a social media sensation named Peanut, and a pet raccoon were seized and euthanized by wildlife authorities.

Peanut, who had more than 900,000 Instagram followers at his peak, gained international attention when owners Mark Longo and Daniela Bittner began dressing him in costumes and teaching him tricks. The couple also kept a raccoon named Fred.

In October 2024, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) removed both animals from the couple’s home, citing reports of illegal wildlife ownership and potential rabies risk. While state law prohibits keeping wild animals such as squirrels and raccoons as pets, DEC officials alleged that Peanut bit an agent during the raid, prompting rabies testing. Both animals later tested negative.

According to the lawsuit, filed August 7, the couple claims the seizure and euthanasia were “senseless acts of violence” and “government overreach,” causing them emotional distress and financial losses. They allege the animals’ deaths were unnecessary, asserting that squirrels do not transmit rabies, and accuse the DEC of refusing to return the bodies or apologize.

The legal complaint names the State of New York, the DEC, and the Department of Health as defendants. It seeks damages for the emotional and economic impact, including lost income from Peanut’s monetized social media presence.

This lawsuit follows a separate legal action filed in June against multiple state and local agencies, also seeking damages over the incident.

Attorney Nora Constance Marino, representing the couple, said they aim to secure justice “not just for my clients, but for Peanut and Fred, and all animals.”

The DEC and DOH have not yet commented on the lawsuit.